4 yr PhD Studentships in Bioinspired and Sustainable Materials (Experimental & Computational)

The University of Strathclyde offers multiple PhD studentships in Bioinspired and Sustainable Materials, focusing on experimental and computational research. Applicants with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree can apply for 4-year PhD or 5-year Master's + PhD scholarships. Research topics include biomimetic materials, green chemistry, and molecular simulations. Candidates should demonstrate academic excellence and relevant experience. The application process involves contacting Dr. Lau for eligibility before a formal submission.
Multiple PhD scholarships are available for experimental and computational students with background in one or more of the following disciplines:
• Chemistry, Materials Science;
• Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering;
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering;
• Machine Learning, Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

Applicants with a bachelor’s degree will apply for a 5-year Master’s + Ph.D. scholarship.

Applicants with a Master’s degree will apply for a 4-year Ph.D. scholarship.

Each PhD project will focus on a research topic of interest to the Lau research group in Bioinspired Molecular Interfaces [1], based in the highly ranked Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry at the University of Strathclyde [2]. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the Lau group, a PhD project may involve additional topics in collaboration with researchers from Chemistry, other departments at Strathclyde, and the Leverhulme Doctoral School in Nature-Inspired Acoustics [3]. The research topics include but are not limited to:
• Biomimetic materials and/or peptide mimicry (“peptoids”);
• Green chemistry of sustainable polymers and polyphenols;
• Molecular interfaces involving hydrogels, self-assembly, crystallization, antimicrobials, or biomaterials;
• Advanced materials involving 3D printing or acoustic manipulation/sensing;
• Responsive architectural materials or sensors and energy management, and;
• Molecular simulations and AI-discovery of nanoparticle and crystallization interfaces.

Applicants should hold or anticipate holding a UK first class or 2:1 degree by December 2026 in a relevant discipline or topical area (see above). Applicants should also demonstrate experience in an extended project or collaboration.

To apply, contact Dr Lau to check for eligibility and briefly explain your background and interest. Include the following information:
• Explanation of whether you qualify for UK/Scottish home fees (e.g., as citizen or holding settled status);
• Brief explanation of which of the listed research topic(s) interest you;
• Brief explanation of what has prepared you for an extended scientific investigation, e.g., academic achievement, overcoming of barriers, placement, research, data analysis, or group project;
• CV.

Once eligibility and a suitable interest are confirmed, candidates will receive further instructions on submitting a short formal application. Applicants successful at this initial application stage will be invited to an online interview. Outcomes will be communicated by email in the week following the interview.

Apply as soon as possible and preferably before Jan 23, 2026—applications will be evaluated on a rolling-basis.

Candidates from all backgrounds, income levels, identities, and experiences are encouraged to apply.